Arrest records are public in Jefferson County, Colorado, pursuant to the Colorado Criminal Justice Records Act (CCJRA) § 24-72-301 et seq. and the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) § 24-72-201 et seq. These statutes establish that criminal justice records, including arrest records, are generally accessible to the public with certain exceptions. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office maintains these records as part of its statutory obligation to document law enforcement activities within the county. Public access to these records serves the dual purpose of ensuring transparency in governmental operations and providing citizens with information regarding law enforcement activities in their communities.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Records Unit is the custodian of arrest records and processes requests in accordance with state law. While most arrest information is public, certain details may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations, privacy rights of victims, or juvenile information as specified under Colorado Revised Statutes § 19-1-304.
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Records Unit
200 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO 80401
Phone: 303-271-5542
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
Jefferson County arrest records are available through several online platforms maintained by county agencies. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office provides an Inmate Lookup Tool that allows members of the public to search for currently incarcerated individuals and access basic arrest information. This service is provided pursuant to § 24-72-303, C.R.S., which permits the disclosure of records of official actions.
Additionally, the Jefferson County Combined Courts maintain an online case information system where court records related to arrests may be accessed. These electronic systems have been implemented to improve public access while reducing administrative burden on county offices. Users should note that online records may not contain complete arrest information, and some details may only be available through formal records requests.
The online availability of these records is subject to periodic system maintenance and updates. Users experiencing difficulties accessing online records may contact the Records Unit directly or submit requests through alternative methods as outlined in the county's records request procedures.
Multiple methods exist for obtaining arrest records in Jefferson County, as established under the Colorado Criminal Justice Records Act. Members of the public may utilize any of the following official channels:
Online Database Searches: The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office maintains an Inmate Lookup Tool that provides current custody information and basic arrest details. This searchable database is updated regularly and serves as the most immediate source of information.
In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit the Records Unit at the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) to submit records requests. Proper identification is required, and fees may apply in accordance with § 24-72-306, C.R.S.
Written Requests: Written requests for arrest records may be submitted via mail or email to the Records Unit. Requests must include the subject's full name, date of birth, and case number (if known). Processing times for written requests typically range from 7 to 10 business days.
Court Records: For cases that have proceeded to court, the Jefferson County Combined Courts maintain criminal case records that may include arrest information. These records can be requested through the court clerk's office.
Jefferson County Combined Courts
100 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO 80401
Phone: 720-772-2500
Jefferson County Courts
Jefferson County arrest records contain comprehensive information as mandated by Colorado Revised Statutes § 16-21-103, which establishes requirements for arrest record documentation. Standard arrest records include the following components:
Pursuant to § 24-72-305, C.R.S., certain information may be redacted from publicly available arrest records, including details that would compromise ongoing investigations, information related to sexual assault victims, and data concerning juveniles. The Records Unit reviews all requests to ensure compliance with statutory privacy protections before release.
Records provided to the public typically include a notation indicating whether the arrest resulted in charges being filed, dismissed, or if the case proceeded to trial. Complete case outcomes may require additional court record searches through the Jefferson County Combined Courts.
Under Colorado law, certain arrest records may be eligible for sealing or expungement, effectively removing them from public access. The process is governed by several statutes, including § 24-72-701 through § 24-72-709, C.R.S., which establish criteria and procedures for record sealing.
Eligibility for expungement in Jefferson County typically applies in the following circumstances:
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the Jefferson County District Court. Petitioners must submit appropriate forms, pay filing fees (unless waived by the court), and may need to attend a hearing. The District Attorney's Office receives notification of all expungement petitions and may contest the request based on statutory grounds.
If granted, an expungement order directs all criminal justice agencies to seal records related to the arrest. Sealed records are not accessible to the general public but may still be available to law enforcement agencies for specific purposes as permitted by statute.
Jefferson County District Court
100 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO 80401
Phone: 720-772-2500
Jefferson County District Court